Kim Byeong-ki (third term) and Seo Young-gyo (fourth term), who ran for the leadership election of the Democratic Party of Korea, jointly emphasized 'ending insurrection' as the top priority at a joint debate at the National Assembly on the 10th.
The debate focused on policy solutions without mutual criticism or negativity, which also drew attention.
Kim Byeong-ki noted, 'Ending insurrection should be led by the National Assembly. It has been six months since the insurrection occurred, but we have not even come close to approaching the facts.' He added, 'There are countless things to clarify, such as who planned it, its scale, and who was involved.'
He continued, 'We will mobilize all means available in the National Assembly, including all standing committees, special committees, and hearings. We will ensure that those responsible for the insurrection cannot set foot in society again and that they will not even dare to consider inciting insurrection again by restructuring and legislating the system.'
Seo Young-gyo promised a swift special prosecution and institutional reforms. He stated, 'I have been working on legislative activities in the Justice Committee for the complete end of insurrection, and I have represented the proposed special prosecution laws for the insurrection, Kim Keon-hee, Myung Tae-kyun, and Geon-jin. We also held a legislative hearing on current issues related to Chae Hae-byeong and will swiftly push for related special prosecutions. We will find and root out all insurrection operations concealed by the prosecution.'
He added, 'Reforms of the prosecution, judiciary, and broadcasting/media are necessary in the process of completely ending the insurrection. I will push for a complete separation of investigation and prosecution, a firm handling of political interference in the judiciary, and a thorough processing of broadcasting laws.'
Regarding the relationship between the party and the government, Seo said, 'There is no time to quickly address reform tasks within six months.' He noted, 'All policies and tasks presented by President Lee Jae-myung have been thoroughly reviewed by us. We will support them as soon as they are announced.'
Kim emphasized, 'It is important to handle reforms quickly through consultations between the party and the government, starting with small bills that yield tangible results rather than large discourses. We will promote practical livelihood bills, such as the Livelihood Economy Cooperation Group, Special Law on Welfare Obligations, Franchise Business Law, and the Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Cooperation Law, under consultations between the party and the government.'
Regarding internal communication strategy, Seo emphasized, 'We will achieve budgeting, policy, and legislation through listening sessions by standing committees and regions,' declaring he would become a 'listening leader.' Kim remarked, 'If the organization does not consider minorities, it will become sick. I will regularly meet with senior leaders to seek advice and create expert groups in each field to respond to issues.'
Kim Byeong-ki referred to Seo Young-gyo as 'vitality,' stating, 'She expresses herself accurately and has strong appeal. She is a politician who takes the lead in protecting socially vulnerable groups through victim-centered legislation.' Seo responded by referring to Kim Byeong-ki as 'the ultimate weapon,' stating, 'He possesses the skills and meticulousness to lead the reform of the National Intelligence Service and has warmth. He is a valuable resource for the party.'